Divorce: an overview

Divorce is tied directly to residence status. Always get advice before signing anything.

Two routes

1. Divorce by agreement — where both agree. Apply to the family court → a cooling-off period → confirmation of intent → registration.
2. Judicial divorce — where there is no agreement or the other party is at fault. Conducted through litigation.

With children, an agreement on custody and parental rights is required. See custody-issues.

Check these at the same time

• Residence status — F-6 can sometimes be retained after divorce. Fault not lying with you and raising children are the key factors. Check with 1345 immediately. See f6-divorce-stay.
• Property division and compensation — you have rights. Don't give them up.
• Child support — you can claim it if you have children.
• If there was violence — gather evidence and consult 1366. It matters for both protection and residence.

What to do during the process

1. Gather evidence — texts, recordings, medical certificates, photos.
2. Get free advice from 132 (Legal Aid).
3. Check your residence status with 1345.
4. Ask 1577-1366 or a family centre for interpretation and counselling.
5. Never sign anything without confirming the content through an interpreter.

Where to go

• 132 Korea Legal Aid Corporation (free legal advice)
• 1345 Immigration Contact Centre (residence status)
• 1366 Women's Emergency Line (violence and crisis)
• 1577-1366 Danuri Helpline (interpretation and advice)
• Your nearest family centre and the family court

Questions people ask

Must I leave the country immediately after divorce? No. Depending on the grounds and whether you are raising children, staying may be possible. Don't decide alone — check with 1345 immediately.

My spouse threatens that divorce means deportation. Often untrue. Such statements can themselves be control and intimidation. Consult 1366 and 1345.

I can't read the documents in Korean. Don't sign without an interpreter. Use 1577-1366 interpretation and family centre support.

I can't afford a lawyer. 132 provides free legal support to those who qualify. Consult them first.

Take care

Never sign an agreement your spouse presents without understanding it. It may waive property division, custody and child support entirely. Have the content checked by 132 or a family centre before signing.

Related

f6-divorce-stay · custody-issues · domestic-violence · single-parent-support · legal-aid

Source

Korea Legal Aid Corporation www.klac.or.kr / As of 2026-08